Naturalist Phil Smith has updated the vascular plant inventory for Crosby Coastal Park, revealing a remarkable total of 389 species. This includes 218 native taxa and 171 aliens, with around 26 regionally or nationally notable plants, according to Smith's latest survey.
Survey Update and Findings
The update follows recent visits by the Wildflower Society and Bradford Botany Group. Smith noted that the revised list includes about 25 new taxa, mostly natives, discovered during these excursions. The figures compare favorably with other local sites: Cabin Hill NNR has approximately 379 vascular plants, while Ainsdale Sand Dunes NNR hosts 476.
This diversity is encouraged by Green Sefton's mowing regime, which creates a sward of varying heights, benefiting insects, birds, and the famous Skylarks of the area. However, increased visitor numbers continue to pressure Skylark breeding success, though the flora remains robust.
Notable Species and Orchids
Despite a shortened season for wild orchids due to extreme summer heat and drought, Smith has recorded six species here. The site also supports nationally scarce and two nationally rare plant species. Sea-holly Broomrape thrives among the extensive Sea Holly in the frontal dunes, parasitizing the latter but not causing lasting harm. The dried Sea Holly of autumn remains vital, as its seeds feed young Skylarks.
Isle of Man Cabbage, another nationally scarce plant, flourishes alongside Sea Rocket, Sandworts, and Spurges, creating a spectacular natural display rare on the Sefton Coast.
Garden Escapes and Invertebrates
Proximity to residential areas brings surprises from garden escapes, with tomatoes and sunflowers appearing as seeds spread by wind or birds. This floral diversity is complemented by a growing list of invertebrates, with Pete Kinsella recording large numbers of Red-veined Darter dragonflies, plus Norfolk Hawkers and Lesser Emperors this summer.
John Dempsey, who works for Green Sefton, highlights the importance of these inventories for coastal management. Green Sefton combines Coast & Countryside, Parks & Greenspaces, and Grounds Maintenance teams to oversee Sefton's coastline, parks, and green spaces.
